James Jones Shares Star Power to Freedom House Event

By Mike Conroy

CREATED Oct. 3, 2012

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  • James Jones lived in a homeless shelter, a far cry from his status as an elite athlete today. "He had the option to go live with his grandma earlier or family members but He couldn't imagine himself leaving his mother." Tamika told us. "And that's on Video by nbc26.com

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GREEN BAY, Wis.--James Jones is considered a star wide receiver in the NFL. But his road to the Green Bay Packers wasn't easy. His wife Tamika describes James' childhood as difficult. However, she says it's what made her husband what he is today. "God knew exactly what he was going to use James for."  Tamika shares.

James Jones lived in a homeless shelter, a far cry from his status as an elite athlete today. "He had the option to go live with his grandma earlier or family members but He couldn't imagine himself leaving his mother." Tamika told us. "And that's one of the reasons why we want to partner with Freedom House because they promote keeping the family together."

Freedom House is homeless shelter for families in Green Bay.  President Robyn Davis says those who stay there receive the tools and education they need to make it in the real world. "With everything we do, it's all about instilling hope in our families."

Davis says Freedom House wouldn't exist without the generosity of the community and families like the Jones' who will share James's story of homelessness at the 9th annual Celebration of Hope fundraiser on Saturday, October 6th at the Lambeau Field Atrium. "This event is really important.;" Davis explained, "Not only to raise resources that we need to keep reaching out and helping families but also to raise awareness that we do have a growing homeless challenge in our community."

James Jones will be there to share his story of life on the streets, wondering where he will sleep at night and help others overcome the same adversity he had. "Being his wife, I mean I just want to be right there, in there, with him and just actually support his vision and what he wants;" Tamika said. "I just think that's it's always a good thing to give back."

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